Shower has no cold water

[patc0168]

On our shakedown trip we discovered that the shower in our Winnebago only has hot water flowing. I am thinking this is a valve issue but could there be another cause?

 

[RioRichard]

Check the strainers/aerators for cold supply. Not uncommon for debris to lodge there. Good luck

 

[RollingManCave]

Check your valves by the hot water heater by-pass area. I had to pull out drawers to get to them. Good luck.

 

[patc0168]

Check the strainers/aerators for cold supply. Not uncommon for debris to lodge there. Good luck

Thank you

 

[Joe Hogan]

Some ideas,

If your Winnebago camper is only producing hot water and no cold water, or if you’re experiencing issues with getting only hot water from faucets, here are some potential causes and troubleshooting steps based on common RV plumbing issues:


Possible Causes and Solutions

1. Bypass Valve Misconfiguration:
   • Issue: The water heater bypass valve may be incorrectly set, causing cold water to be diverted or mixed improperly, resulting in only hot water at the taps.
   • Solution: Locate the bypass valve (typically near the water heater, often behind a panel or in the water bay). Ensure it’s in the correct position for normal operation (not winterization mode). For most systems, the valve should allow cold water to flow into the heater and hot water to exit to the faucets. Refer to your Winnebago’s manual for the exact valve configuration.
2. Check Valve Failure:
   • Issue: A faulty check valve on the water heater’s inlet or outlet could block cold water flow or cause improper mixing, leading to only hot water output.
   • Solution: Inspect the check valves (usually brass or plastic fittings on the water heater’s input/output lines). If they’re stuck or damaged, replace them. This may require accessing the water heater, which can be under the floor or behind a panel in some Winnebago models.
3. Outdoor Shower or Faucet Mixing:
   • Issue: If the outdoor shower or another faucet is left on with both hot and cold valves open, it can cause hot and cold water to mix in the system, resulting in only hot or lukewarm water at other taps.
   • Solution: Check all faucets, especially the outdoor shower. Ensure both hot and cold valves are fully closed, not just turned off at the showerhead.
4. Plumbing Cross-Connection:
   • Issue: A plumbing issue, such as a cross-connection or blockage in the cold water line, could prevent cold water from reaching the faucets, leaving only hot water available.
   • Solution: Trace the cold water lines from the fresh water tank or city water inlet to the faucets. Look for kinks, blockages, or incorrect connections. Test cold water flow at each faucet to isolate the issue. If no cold water flows anywhere, check the water pump or city water connection for issues.
5. Frozen Cold Water Lines:
   • Issue: In cold weather, the cold water lines may freeze while the hot water lines remain functional due to the heated water, resulting in only hot water output.
   • Solution: Inspect cold water lines, especially in exposed areas like water bays. Use heat tape or a space heater to thaw frozen lines. Install temperature gauges in water bays to monitor conditions.
6. Water Pump or Pressure Issue:
   • Issue: If using the onboard water pump, low pressure or a pump issue could affect cold water delivery more than hot water, especially if the hot water tank is pressurized.
   • Solution: Check the water pump for proper operation (listen for cycling or unusual noises). Ensure the fresh water tank is full and the pump is primed. Verify water pressure at the city water inlet if connected to a hookup.
7. Truma AquaGo System (Specific Models):
   • Issue: If your Winnebago (e.g., View, Navion, EKKO, or Forza) has a Truma AquaGo instant water heater, a malfunction in the temperature stabilizer or mixing vessel could cause inconsistent water temperatures, potentially delivering only hot water.
   • Solution: Check the AquaGo’s control panel inside the RV and ensure it’s set to “comfort” or “eco” mode, not “off.” Inspect for error codes or perform the decalcification “clean” mode if maintenance is overdue. Contact a Truma service center if issues persist.

Troubleshooting Steps

• Step 1: Confirm whether cold water is completely absent at all faucets or if it’s just reduced. Turn on each faucet (kitchen, bathroom, shower, outdoor) and test both hot and cold settings.
• Step 2: Check the water heater’s power source (propane, electric, or both) and ensure it’s heating properly. Open the pressure relief valve (carefully, as water may be hot) to verify the tank is full and heated.
• Step 3: Inspect the bypass valves and ensure they’re set for normal operation. If unsure, take a photo and consult your manual or an RV technician.
• Step 4: Close all faucets, especially the outdoor shower, to rule out mixing issues.
• Step 5: If in cold weather, check for frozen lines by feeling for cold spots or using a temperature gauge in water compartments.
• Step 6: If the issue persists, access the water heater (may require removing panels or accessing from the side/back) to inspect check valves or plumbing connections.

Model-Specific Notes

• Older Models (e.g., 1996–2004 Adventurer): Water heaters like Atwood or Suburban are common, often with check valves prone to failure. Access may be challenging, sometimes under the floor or behind appliances like the refrigerator.
• Newer Models (e.g., View, Navion, EKKO): These may use Truma AquaGo systems, which require specific maintenance like decalcification to prevent temperature issues.
• 2009 Winnebago View: Bypass valve issues are common after de-winterization, so double-check valve positions.

Additional Tips

• Manuals and Diagrams: Download plumbing diagrams from Winnebago’s website or the Winnie Owners forum to locate components specific to your model and year.
• Professional Help: If you can’t access the water heater or diagnose the issue, contact an RV technician or a Winnebago dealer. For Truma AquaGo systems, Lichtsinn RV or a Truma service center can assist.
• Preventive Maintenance: Regularly inspect check valves, flush the water heater, and ensure proper valve settings before trips to avoid issues.

If You Need Further Assistance


Please provide the make, model, and year of your Winnebago camper, as well as the type of water heater (e.g., Atwood, Suburban, Truma AquaGo). This will help narrow down the issue. Additionally, clarify if you’re using the water pump or city water hookup, and whether you’re in freezing conditions. I can provide more tailored guidance with these details.


If you want to share photos of your water heater setup or valves, I can analyze them to offer more specific advice. Let me know!

 

[AbdRahim]

Wow. I nominate Mr. Hogan, technician of the year.

 

[Joe Hogan]

Grok3 Ai is my new best friend!!